PREVENTING THE SCHOOL-JUSTICE CONNECTION FOR YOUTH IN FOSTER CARE

Youth involved in the child welfare system face many barriers to educational success and are at a higher risk of becoming involved in the criminal justice system as youth and as adults. They face disruptive school changes, social stigma and isolation, lack of educational supports, disproportionately high rates of special education services, and exclusionary disciplinary actions. The implementation of promising practices and interventions regarding school discipline, delinquency prevention, educational supports, and collaboration among service agencies can help improve foster care experiences and educational outcomes. These can help prevent the crossover of youth in foster care into the criminal justice system.